Josefina was pretty surprised when she heard Livia had run into Finley while abroad. Talk about a twist of fate.
On one hand, you'd think they were never meant to cross paths, yet here they are meeting overseas. On the other hand, maybe it would've been better if they hadn't met at all.
“Oliver, have a chat with Finley, would you? He's acting like winning Livia back is some kind of game, but she might not be up for it. Tell him to take a chill pill and not cause any trouble,” Josefina said.
“I’ve already talked to him. If he dares to mess with you, he’ll have to deal with me,” Oliver replied seriously over the phone.
Josefina chuckled. “Aren’t you worried he’ll say you’re choosing a girl over your buddy?”
“Let him say whatever. I know where my loyalties lie.”
With a laugh, Josefina got up from the swing.
Mandy approached her at the Harrisons’, a bit hesitant.
“Josie, it’s my birthday today. My folks are throwing a party, and I’d love for you to come.”
“Happy Birthday,” Josefina said, genuinely surprised by Mandy’s invitation.
“Thanks,” Mandy replied, looking a tad sheepish.
Breaking the awkward pause, Josefina said, “Let me step out and grab a present for you.”
Mandy’s face lit up with a shy smile. “Oh, you don’t have to. Honestly, your forgiveness is the best gift. Just having you at my party means a lot. Thank you, Josie.”
“Let’s not mix things up. Besides, all that’s behind us now.”
Their shared laughter seemed to close the chapter on any past awkwardness.
…
Josefina picked out two stunning dresses that would suit Mandy perfectly, wrapped them up, and planned to give them to her that evening.
Orla shared something with Josefina that made her stop in her tracks.
Josefina felt a weight lift. “Keep up the good work, and I’ll make sure you’re rewarded.”
“Ms. Josefina, you’ve already given me so many opportunities and treated me well. You’ve never let me down, and even pulled me back from the brink. You’re my guiding light, and I aspire to be like you,” Orla said, heartfelt.
Josefina patted her arm. “I’m proud of you. Let’s keep pushing forward together.”
“Let’s do this,” Orla said, her admiration for Josefina shining in her eyes.
…
Mandy’s birthday bash was set at the lavish Bogart’s Hotel.
Many of Evan’s business partners attended, as he aimed to expand his business in Westwood, using the occasion not only to celebrate Mandy’s birthday but also to network.
Upon hearing that Josefina was going to the birthday party, skipping their date, Oliver decided to join the celebration as well. After all, Josefina’s family was his family too.

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